Oak Mountain State Park, located 60 miles from Spring Garden, features recently renovated facilities throughout its campground sections. The park covers 9,940 acres of woodland terrain with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,260 feet above sea level. Equestrian campers have access to dedicated pull-through sites with updated bathhouses maintained year-round, while tent and RV campers can choose from lakeside or wooded sites depending on their preference.
What to do
Trail exploration: Oak Mountain offers extensive trail systems beyond horseback riding, with well-marked hiking paths accessible directly from backcountry sites. "You can set up camp and go on a hike straight from there," notes Asher K., who recommends the backcountry sites over traditional camping areas for more seclusion and interesting scenery.
Water recreation: The park's lakes provide fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities during warmer months. "We were able to get into the primitive section without any reservations which is always wonderful. Sites are beautiful and the lake near our site was a nice place for a dip," shares Denise K., who stopped at Oak Mountain State Park Campground during a trip to Michigan.
Diverse activities: Beyond standard outdoor recreation, Oak Mountain features specialized facilities. "Don't miss the TREE TOP NATURE TRAIL! Good food at The Grille at Oak Mountain State Park inside the Pro Shop at The Oaks Golf Course," recommends Napunani, highlighting attractions beyond typical camping activities.
Off-road adventures: For motorized recreation, Minooka Park offers extensive trail networks. "Lots of trails to hit on the dirt bikes or ATVs. We go for day riding trips once a month or so," says Chris B. about Chilton County Minooka Park, which also features a dirt track suitable for both dirt bikes and RC cars.
What campers like
Recently renovated facilities: Oak Mountain has undergone significant improvements to campground amenities. "They put a massive amount of money into updating this place. This is the #1 best state park campground I have ever been at," explains Soren B., who particularly appreciates the updated facilities at Oak Mountain Backcountry Site.
Equestrian accommodations: Horse owners appreciate the thoughtful design of equestrian-specific camping areas. "The Equestrian campground has all pull thru sites with a remodeled bathhouse. It was extremely clean," reports Melinda S., who found the spaces at Oak Mountain well-designed even for inexperienced trailer drivers.
Farm environment: Horse enthusiasts value authentic rural settings. "The campground is very nice and woodsy. The campsites have water and electric hookups. They have nice paddocks for your horses. The multiple trails are so beautiful," shares Belinda H. about Faye Whittemore Farms Inc, a farm-based camping destination.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment at these campgrounds. "Very nicely landscaped and neatly mowed. Quiet. Regularly saw ranger driving through campground," notes Napunani about their stay at Oak Mountain, highlighting the well-maintained grounds and security presence.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking, particularly during peak seasons. At Oak Mountain, reservations can be made nearly a year in advance, though there is a fee for this service. "Reserved 363 days prior to arriving. $5 reservation fee for making my own on-line reservation," mentions Napunani.
Campground navigation: First-time visitors should prepare for potentially confusing entrance and check-in procedures at larger parks. "Poor signage upon entering Park. We stopped at the first building on the right, as it was marked RANGER OFFICE with a large, rig-friendly parking area, but it was not a check-in for campers... Glad we didn't arrive in the dark!" warns Napunani.
Connectivity options: Cell service and internet availability varies between locations. "It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception," reports Soren B. about Oak Mountain, while other campgrounds may have more limited connectivity options.
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability of shower and restroom facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms are clean, but there are no showers," notes Randal B. about Chilton County Minooka Park, contrasting with the "clean washrooms near campsite" that Adrienne D. found at Faye Whittemore Farms.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: Several parks offer educational wildlife experiences suitable for children. "You'll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center. There's an archery station within the park and a petting farm," shares Cat about family activities at Oak Mountain.
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "The playground is also small but nice," mentions Chris B. about Minooka Park, providing an option for younger campers when not exploring trails.
Campsite selection for convenience: Families should consider proximity to facilities when choosing sites. "The campground is easily navigated with multiple bathhouses per campground so you'll always have one nearby," recommends Cat, who has been visiting Faye Whittemore Farms since childhood.
Multiple activity options: Parks offering diverse recreation opportunities can keep children of different ages engaged. "This park has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing," notes Soren B., highlighting the variety available at Oak Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling conditions: RVers report varying experiences with site levelness across campgrounds. "A30 level site and nearly full shade coverage," shares Napunani about their Oak Mountain site, while noting that some areas have better shade than others.
Parking considerations: Some campgrounds have limited maneuvering space at check-in areas. "Limited and very tight rig parking at campground gate check-in," warns Napunani, suggesting that larger rigs may face challenges during the arrival process.
Full-hookup availability: Minooka Park offers full-hookup sites suitable for longer stays. "Great people always willing to help, loves our long term stay here. Mr. Gerald, Mr. Teddy & Mr. Scott are always more than willing to work with you & help in any way," shares Amy L., indicating the park accommodates extended RV camping.
